When it was overcast or rainy we all moaned and longed for summer and now that it is here, this is no time for complaining. So slap on the sun cream and try one of these to soak up some rays…

Down at the bottom of the garden

A sunny day, a pint of something ice cold and a good pub garden – is there anything more ideal? Find yourself a seat in a good beer garden if you can. Our top tips include the geometric beauty of The Dolphin in Sydenham and the sunken suntrap that is the Guildford Arms in Greenwich.

Splash around

Finally we have the weather to make a lido worthwhile. Get your swimmers on and submerge yourself at Charlton Lido.

Anyone for cricket?

Of course, you may not want to run around but it can be enjoyable to take a seat, grab a drink and watch someone else tire themselves out for your entertainment. England take on South Africa in a test match at The Oval from July 27 or Surrey host Somerset in the T20 Blast, also at The Oval on July 9.

Something cold

Let’s face it, the only adequate way to cool down is ice cream. Maybe surprisingly, Bromley is a hot spot for ice cream - Gianfranco Zola's Unico is in the High Street just up from Bromley South station.

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Woodland wandering

Have a wander through the 96 hectares of ancient forest and woodlands of Beckenham Place Park, where you can justifiably be in the shade at least some of the time. Perhaps have a round of golf, enjoy the sensory garden or let the kids run riot in the play area.

Farm fun

If animals are more your thing then Woodlands Farm Trust in Shooters Hill is for you. The 89-acre working farm is home to farmed animals such as cattle, pigs, sheep, chickens and Guinea Pigs as well as wild ones such as birds, butterflies. It also runs activities most days, from orienteering to be a farmer for the day and various crafts. Go to thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org

Park life

Like you needed this one suggested to you. Summer’s days were made for lazing in a park. Greenwich Park is one of London’s most iconic and a touching distance to the river and historic, bustling Greenwich; Danson Park is an oasis with a boating lake, the Horniman Museum’s gardens are a landscaped wonderland and the lesser known Priory Gardens in Orpington is a great place for a bit of quiet.